The SpecialMoms Parenting Magazine 2nd Issue | Page 39

6 Ways to Combat Isolation Issues When Working From Home Cut the problem off at the pass. Use these six ideas to implement a way to stay connected from the outset of your home business life . 1. Leave the house – Get outside and breathe the fresh air and soak up some good old vitamin D every day. Take the kids out to play in the park. Run your errands in the middle of the day when you are spoiling for a break. If you have a coffee shop nearby, spoil yourself once in a while and get a fresh, brewed cup of coffee made by someone else and sit and enjoy it. Just 15 minutes away from your computer, listening to other voices might just motivate you enough to head back to your office fully charged. 2. Separate your work life and home life – This can be as simple an act as closing the door to your home office. Hang a sign on the door like a brick and mortar business that shows the hours of operation. When you close the door, there is freedom. I would even take it one step further, and turn off your phone or put it to silence. That way when you want to spend that quality time with your family, you don’t jump as soon as you hear the phone ring. 3. Chat with family and friends – Use Skype or even Facetime family members who are far away. It’s nice to see the faces of the people who are important in your life. 4. Plan a few outings – Set lunch dates with friends or your spouse. This is an excuse to get out of the house and also to catch up with them over a good meal. This is really a nice thing to do with your spouse especially, I know in my house it’s hard to have a good conversation or a least talk about vacations or work with my son around. My husband and I often schedule lunch dates for this purpose. 5. Network – Hobnob with other business professionals at local Chamber of Commerce events. Check to see when there will be professional conferences in your area and register to attend. I also find it nice to attend some mom blogging conferences out of state. It’s easy to get recharged when you have inspiring women in the room. It’s a great time for collaboration. 6. Be Social – Social media has made it very easy for people to connect, make new friendships, get new business partners or even reconnect with old friends. Join some Google Hangouts, sign up for spreecasts or webinars. You can still always learn from home and chat with new business connections. Stay sane while you work at home by staying connected with others. SpecialMoms Parenting Magazine, Spring 2014 by Marla Murasko